Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023)
Starting at
£117.65£219.00 new
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017)
Starting at
£56.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) and Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017)?
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) starts at £56, £61.65 less than the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023). The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), Exynos 7870 Octa (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017).
- The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) has a bigger battery: 5100 mAh vs 4450 mAh.
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) specs
The Galaxy Tab A9 and the Galaxy Tab Active2 differ in several ways that suit different users. The Galaxy Tab A9 has a larger screen, more RAM, and more storage options, making it a good choice for everyday use, gaming, and multitasking. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has a slightly smaller screen with higher pixel density and a more detailed front camera, which may appeal to those who prioritise sharper selfies and a compact size. It runs Android 7.1.1 and has less memory and storage, fitting simpler use cases. Each device suits different needs depending on what you value most in a tablet.
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) price
Colour
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 16GBSold out
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) battery life and software updates
Durability here covers battery capacity, operating system updates, and the Android version supported. These factors affect how long you can use the tablet between charges and the software features available over time.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab A9 has a 5100 mAh battery, which is larger than the Galaxy Tab Active2's 4450 mAh. This means the A9 can support longer usage between charges, which benefits users who use their tablet for extended periods without access to charging.
Software Updates
The newer Android version on the A9 offers recent features and security improvements, suitable for users who want up-to-date software.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) performance
Performance differences include processor speed, RAM, and storage options. These specs affect how smoothly apps run, multitasking ability, and how much data or apps you can keep on the device.
Processor Speed
The Galaxy Tab A9 features a Mediatek Helio G99 chipset with 8 cores running at 2.2 GHz and 2.0 GHz, while the Galaxy Tab Active2 has an Exynos 7870 Octa with 8 cores at 1.6000 GHz. The higher processor speed on the A9 benefits users who run demanding apps or multitask frequently.
Memory Capacity
The Galaxy Tab A9 comes with 4 GB of RAM, compared to 3 GB on the Galaxy Tab Active2. More RAM helps keep more apps open and running smoothly, which is useful for users who switch between multiple applications.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab A9 offers 64 GB and 128 GB storage variants, while the Galaxy Tab Active2 has 16 GB. Larger storage on the A9 suits users who download many apps, save photos, or store media files, giving more room before needing external storage.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) screen
Screen quality involves size, resolution, pixel density, and screen type. These affect how sharp and comfortable the display is for reading, video, and interaction.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab A9 has an 8.7 inch TFT LCD screen with a resolution of 800 x 1340, offering a larger viewing area. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an 8.0 inch LCD screen with 800 x 1280 resolution, giving a smaller but slightly more pixel-dense display.
Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab Active2 has a pixel density of 190 ppp, which is higher than the Galaxy Tab A9's 180 ppp. This means the Active2's display is marginally sharper, which could benefit users who prioritise fine detail on screen.
Brightness
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) camera
Audiovisual features include cameras, speakers, and video recording. These affect how well you can take photos, video chat, and listen to audio.
Front Camera
The Galaxy Tab Active2 has a 5 megapixel front camera, compared to 2 megapixels on the Galaxy Tab A9. This higher resolution front camera is suited to users who use video calls or selfies where greater detail is preferred.
Main Cameras and Video
Both tablets have an 8 megapixel rear camera and can record video at 1080p 30 FPS. This means they offer similar capabilities for photos and video recording on the back, suitable for casual photography and video capture.
Speakers
Both tablets feature stereo speakers, providing balanced audio for watching videos or calls.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) size and design
Miscellaneous differences cover connectivity, size, weight, and other features affecting daily use and comfort.
Bluetooth Version
The Galaxy Tab A9 supports Bluetooth 5.3, which is a newer version than the Galaxy Tab Active2's Bluetooth 4.2. Newer Bluetooth can offer improved connection stability and range for wireless devices.
Device Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy Tab A9 measures 211 mm in height, 124.7 mm in width, and 8 mm in depth, weighing 333 g. The Galaxy Tab Active2 is slightly taller and wider at 214 mm height and 127.6 mm width, with a depth of 9.9 mm and weight of 415 g. The lighter and slimmer A9 suits users who prefer a more compact and portable tablet.
Carrier and SIM
The Galaxy Tab A9 is unlocked and supports a Nano SIM, while the Galaxy Tab Active2 does not have a SIM port. This means the A9 can connect to mobile networks directly, which is useful if you want internet access without Wi-Fi.
Headphone Connectivity and USB
Both tablets have a 3.5 mm headphone jack and use a USB Type-C connector for charging and data. These standard ports support common accessories and wired audio.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) or Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5100 mAh vs 4450 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (8.7 inch vs 8.0 inch)
Buy the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £56, £61.65 less than the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (5 megapixels vs 2 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy Tab A9 appreciate its size and memory, making it suitable for gaming and multitasking. Many mention it feels like a new device and praise its ease of setup and compatibility with other Samsung products. Users find it good value and like the freedom it offers for downloading apps. Some note regional settings issues but still find it a reliable and well-functioning tablet.
Reviews for the Galaxy Tab Active2 highlight satisfaction with the device's condition and functionality, with several users saying it works perfectly and suits basic use. Some mention receiving extras like a stylus pen, and others appreciate its compact size. However, there are reports of software issues during setup and limitations with app logins related to the Android version.
Overall, the Galaxy Tab A9 suits users needing a larger screen, more memory, and updated software, ideal for everyday use and media. The Galaxy Tab Active2 fits those looking for a smaller, simpler tablet with essential features and a sharper front camera.
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), Exynos 7870 Octa (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017). The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
The Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £56 compared with £117.65 for the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023).
The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) has a bigger battery: 5100 mAh vs 4450 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 8 megapixels.
The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) adds more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger battery (5100 mAh vs 4450 mAh) and a bigger screen (8.7 inch vs 8.0 inch). Refurbished, it costs £61.65 more (from £117.65 vs £56).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) in 16GB.
